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Paul , I have been going to the dentist regularly ( 2x/yr) for cleaning and treatments...the Dentist never had a problem .. I of course told her when I first went ... that has been more than 10 yrs.......so get on with it...fill out the patient form ...put down HIV...and see what happens....

hello paul - in the uk, BDA guidelines require all dentists to be working in a way which protects both them, their staff, & their patients from hiv, hep etc. So, you don't have to tell em if you don't feel comfortable. If they do know, though, helps them to look out for oral health issues which can be specific to hiv.Dunno what the situation is where you live, but down here, i can think of a few dental practises whose literature makes specific reference to welcoming patients with hiv. Your clinic might be able to recommend one too, if you don't feel comfotable with current dentist.

anaesthetic, local or general, not aware of an interaction with your meds - i'm hoping you'd only be having a local though, eh? hope you get it sorted, soon..

You are not required to inform your dentist that you are HIV positive. Universal precautions are taken. There may be a question on the dental forms, as to what medications you are currently on, along with, are you HIV positive. I always list my medications, and I feel comfortable disclosing to those that are going to treat me. That is just the way I have been through the years. I have never had a problem, with dentists, doctors, surgeons, eye doctors, or dermatologist, after informing them of my status. And if someone gives you a problem, they should be reported. Once again, this is your choice...

I have had local anesthetic done on a couple of occasions at the dentist, while on Viramune, Epzicom, and Viread, with no problems whatsoever.

You may already have an infection going on in your mouth, so chances are the dentist, will not do anything on that visit, except to prescribe you anti-biotics, to fight the infection down. You would most likely go back and see him/her again in 5 days or so after starting on anti-biotics.

Sorry you have the fear of the dentist, but try to relax, and get this matter taken care of. You will feel so much better afterwords, And infection in the mouth, gums, should not be taken lightly. I look at the dentist as someone who is part of my general health care.